In addition to understanding the
processes of ionization, we need to consider the liberated electrons. What about
the free electrons that have been liberated during the process? Every method
of ionization results in some form of electron liberation. These electrons possess
energy (Kinetic energy), or motion. Where do they go?

Subionization

Eventually the energy of the electron
must be absorbed as well. The energy of a moving electron can be absorbed in
different ways. The electron may collide with another orbital electron and knock
it out. Resulting in a loss of energy, or sharing of energy due to liberating
another electron. If the electrons energy transfer is not totally absorbed,
it may continue to liberate other electrons. Liberated electrons may also have
enough sufficient energy to continue liberating other electrons. This process
may continue until minimal energy remains in any one electron. These low energy
electrons will eventually interact with an atom in what is known as Subionization.
Atoms are not ionized by this process. Rather, the orbital electrons are given
a little excess energy, which will be given off eventually in the form of low
energy electromagnetic radiation. This electromagnetic form may be ultraviolet
light, visible light, or heat energy. It should be noted that although all X-
and gamma ray absorption eventually ends up this way, the actual quantities
are very small in relation to the mass of the material for which the interaction
is occurring. The actual effects would be extremely small and unnoticeable,
unless we had some sort of instrumentation that was highly sensitive.